Article Abstract:
Duke University Comprehensive Cancer Center, Durham, NC, treats breast cancer patients with chemotherapy plus autologous bone marrow transplants. Patients usually stay in the hospital for only ten days; then they receive treatment in an outpatient clinic while residing at a nearby hotel. Cost of treatment has been reduced from $130,000 to under $70,000. Dr. William Peters, program director, hopes other hospitals will concentrate on particular types of cancer treatment and develop regional centers to avoid duplication of facilities.
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Article Abstract:
Hospitals are finding it necessary to develop strategic plans for the growing number of ambulatory care services they offer. Hospitals are now listening to physicians more when developing outpatient services. Increased efficiency in planning ambulatory care facilities, so that cost per unit of outpatient care does not rise, is the main goal of hospital administrators. Alliant Health System in Louisville, KY, has recently decided to convert its 190-bed Methodist Evangelical Hospital into an ambulatory care facility.
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Article Abstract:
The increasing amount of outpatient care is forcing many hospitals to rethink their administrative structures to improve services. It is anticipated that there will be a rise in the number of patients entering hospitals for high-technology outpatient procedures. To meet the rapid growth some hospitals have already created a separate manager responsible for outpatient activity. Hospitals will need to appoint more directors who are creative and flexible in managing ambulatory care services.
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